Introducing the Honda SMARTrainer

Safe Motorcyclist Awareness & Recognition Trainer

The revolutionary new SMARTrainer packages hardware and software in one of the most engaging instructional tools ever offered to the rider training community.

It combines a personal computer, an advanced safety-training program and a video monitor, plus a handlebar, seat, footrests and all the standard controls found on a real motorcycle.

Riders experience and respond to a variety of on-screen scenarios as they travel along virtual streets and highways. To succeed in this world of pixels and bytes, students have to make the right decisions as they Search, Evaluate and Execute - SEE℠ - their way past computer-generated cars, trucks and pedestrians.

The objective of the on-road simulation is to safely negotiate a series of routes, while developing effective road hazard awareness. Fifteen different routes under a variety of road and environmental conditions are in the training package, so there are plenty of challenges.

The SMARTrainer creates a virtual environment, but the lessons learned are real.

A Powerful Tool

Novice riders, recent MSF Basic RiderCourse℠ graduates, and experienced riders can all practice in realistic traffic situations that require the operator to evaluate and address traffic hazards and traps -- in a controlled, risk-free environment -- using the same motorcycle control functions as an actual motorcycle. Even car drivers can benefit from the situational awareness lessons provided by the SMARTrainer

Used under the guidance of MSF-certified RiderCoaches or SMARTrainer coaches, the SMARTrainer becomes a powerful teaching tool. Riders gain valuable feedback for the choices they make on the road, helping them identify areas where they can improve their decision-making abilities.

How It Works

Realistic Scenarios

The software includes two practice sessions and 15 hazard awareness and recognition routes covering city, suburban and touring environments. And each route can be ridden in daylight, at night or in fog.

Four different course types.

Up to fifteen different routes.

Three unique conditions.

Rider Performance Feedback

Upon completion of each riding route, on-screen feedback is provided to the student, and results can be printed out for rider and coach in-depth review.

In evaluating rider performance, beyond video review of the actual ride, the software capabilities include the opportunity to select from other roadway user perspectives, including pedestrians, car and truck drivers.

On a clear day, the driver's side door of a parked truck opens into the rider's path of travel.

Same scenario in the fog -- will the rider respond to the hazard in time under foggy conditions?

A "helicopter" viewpoint is even provided. RiderCoaches can use these functions to assist the rider in answering key learning questions, such as "Why didn't I see where that bicyclist came from?" and "What could I do differently to make sure that doesn't happen again?"

Although not intended to be a pure motorcycle simulator from the standpoint of replicating actual vehicle operation and feedback, the SMARTrainer can help inexperienced riders prepare for the MSF Basic RiderCourse by guiding them through basic motorcycle control operations such as use of the friction zone and the front and rear brake controls, as well as throttle and gearshift coordination, all in a non-threatening setting.

Classroom Convenience

In addition to individualized training, riding scenarios and video feedback can be projected onto a large screen, allowing a coach to have the opportunity to take advantage of the dynamics of a group learning experience.

Specifications

The Whole Package

SMARTrainer frame and components, including a 2-year warranty with technical support.

The SMARTrainer Training Site Requirements

Demonstrate a commitment to motorcycle safety training by providing a dedicated RiderCoach or SMARTrainer Coach who will be responsible for coaching students through SMARTrainer training sessions.

Commit to participating in a SMARTrainer preparation program for installation and set-up as outlined by MSF, and provide an appropriate location to ensure maximum benefit of the SMARTrainer.

Incorporate the safety concepts and messages from the Basic RiderCourse and the MSF SMARTrainer Coach guide into the SMARTrainer student experience, and provide active feedback to the student, including student self-assessment.

Maintain the SMARTrainer and ensure its intended use as a safety training tool that supports the MSF mission of rider safety.